Which method is best for enforcing password management in a small company?

Enforcing password expiration is an effective method for managing passwords, particularly in a small company setting. Regularly requiring users to change their passwords helps mitigate the risk of unauthorized access that can occur if a password has been compromised or guessed over time. By implementing a scheduled password expiration policy, organizations can reduce the likelihood that long-term credentials are used maliciously or by individuals who should no longer have access.

In a small company, where personnel might change frequently or where there are fewer resources to monitor security constantly, a password expiration policy ensures that all employees are periodically updating their login credentials. This creates a dynamic security environment that adapts to changes in personnel or potential threats, thereby enhancing overall security resilience.

Password recovery via email, while convenient, can present vulnerabilities if email accounts are compromised. Password reuse prevention is beneficial but can be challenging for users who struggle to remember multiple unique passwords. Password complexity requirements help create stronger passwords but may lead to user frustration, especially if they are required to meet overly complex criteria. Balancing complexity with usability is crucial, which is why implementing a regular expiration policy can often be seen as a more straightforward approach for small companies focused on improving their security practices.